World Congress on

Civil, Structural, and Environmental Engineering

  • Renaissance London Heathrow Hotel
  • March 10-11, 2025
;
Prof. Kiran Tota-Maharaj

 

Prof. Kiran Tota-Maharaj

The Water Research Centre Ltd (WRc)
UK

Abstract Title: Adapting Caribbean Hydrosystems to a Changing Climate: Resilient Water, Stormwater, and Wastewater Infrastructure

Biography:

Professor Kiran Tota-Maharaj is a leading academic in Water Resources Management, Environmental Engineering, and Sustainable Infrastructure. He is Professor & Chair of Water Resources Management & Infrastructure at the Royal Agricultural University, Cirencester, England, UK as well as Technical Director of Water, Wastewater and Environmental Engineering at the Water Research Centre Ltd (WRc) based in Swindon, England, UK. Prof. Tota-Maharaj conducts pioneering research in water circularity, integrated water resources management (IWRM), and the Water-Energy-Food Nexus. His work focuses on developing nature-based solutions, enhancing urban water resilience, and advancing sustainable wastewater treatment. He has a strong track record of research publications, successful industrial collaborations, and prestigious awards. A passionate engineer and educator, Prof. Tota-Maharaj mentors aspiring scientists/engineers and is dedicated to fostering the next generation of water professionals.

Research Interest:

The Caribbean region faces a critical challenge in adapting its vital water infrastructure to the intensifying impacts of climate change. Over the years far too often the multifaceted threats posed by rising sea levels, more frequent and intense hurricanes, and altered precipitation patterns to water supply systems, stormwater drainage, and wastewater treatment facilities have impacted the West Indies. The Caribbean's reliance on surface water sources and ageing infrastructure renders it particularly vulnerable to climate-related disruptions. Extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, have historically caused widespread damage to water supply systems, leading to contamination and service disruptions. Moreover, changing precipitation patterns, characterised by increased periods of drought interspersed with intense rainfall events, exacerbate these challenges. These shifts can strain water supplies, overwhelm stormwater systems, and increase the risk of flooding and pollution. This keynote presentation will delve into the strategies necessary to enhance the resilience of Caribbean hydrosystems. This presentation and key areas of discussion addresses the urgent need for critical infrastructure upgrades such as strengthening water supply systems through measures like diversifying water sources (e.g., rainwater harvesting versus desalination), improving water storage and distribution networks, enhancing leak detection and repair systems, and developing drought-resistant crops and water-efficient agricultural practices; implementing nature-based solutions (NbS) for stormwater management, such as green roofs and rain gardens, swales and bioswales, wetland restoration and creation, and improved stormwater drainage systems; and upgrading wastewater treatment plants to improve efficiency and resilience, exploring decentralised wastewater treatment options, such as on-site systems and constructed wetlands, and enhancing their capacity to handle increased rainfall volumes and potential flooding. Technological advancements are crucial, including utilising early warning systems for extreme weather events, real-time monitoring of water quality and quantity, remote sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for improved water resources management, and climate modelling tools to predict future water availability and demand. Developing and implementing robust water resource management policies and regulations, strengthening regional and national collaborations for knowledge sharing and resource mobilisation, and investing in research and development to advance climate change adaptation strategies for the Caribbean are essential. This presentation will emphasise the urgent need for a multi-faceted approach to building resilient water infrastructure in the West Indies. By integrating these sustainable engineering strategies and fostering strong partnerships among governments, researchers, and communities, the region can mitigate the impacts of climate change and ensure the sustainable availability of water resources for future generations.

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